In a statement explaining why he decided to pursue the presidency, McMullin on Monday wrote that Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton is a "corrupt career politician" while Republican contender Donald Trump "appeals to the worst fears of Americans at a time we need unity."

He maintained that with the high stakes of this election, he could not afford to be a bystander.

Trump Booed Leaving New York Times

President Elect Donald Trump is booed as he walks through the lobby of The New York Times Building after a 75-minute meeting with Times journalists. The lobby of the Times building is open to the public, and a large crowd had gathered by the time he departed. (Published Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2016)

"Our country needs leaders who are in it for the right reasons and who actually understand what makes this country the greatest on earth," McMullin said in the statement.